Muay Thai champ switches to Mixed Martial Arts

Packing a punch: Ali, who has over 300 Muay Thai fights, will make his MMA debut against Singapore-based Amnuaysirichoke in Dubai on Aug 29.

One of Malaysia’s most decorated Muay Thai champion is set to switch the ring for a cage when he takes on Dejdamrong Sor Amnuaysirichoke in a mixed martial arts (MMA) battle at One FC: Reign of Champions.

Ali Yaakub, who has chalked up over 300 Muay Thai fights will make his MMA debut against Singapore-based Amnuaysirichoke at the Dubai World Trade Centre on Aug 29.

“I feel MMA is very different from Muay Thai and the training involved is also much more complicated than Muay Thai. MMA is tougher,” said Ali.

Despite going against a fellow Muay Thai exponent who has an impressive record of 282-65, Ali is not fazed by the tough challenge ahead of him.

“I am comfortable in Muay thai and I’ve been fighting for a long time. I don’t really feel nervous about the opponent,” he added.

Ali’s opponent is an instructor at Evolve MMA and has trained extensively in mixed martial arts in anticipation of this bout.

Amnuaysirichoke striking skills was on full display in his ONE FC debut earlier this year when he dismantled Filipino boxer Jomanz Omanz with devastating kicks and punches en route to a TKO victory in the first round.

“I’ll be studying all his weaknesses and that’s where I’ll be attacking. The rest of my strategy will be revealed during the fight itself but just a hint, it’s about leg kicks,” said Ali, confidently.

Asia’s largest mixed martial arts organisation with a 90% market share, One Fighting Championship (One FC) has confirmed that their upcoming event will feature a ONE FC Featherweight World Championship clash between current champion Koji Oishi and Mongolian striking expert, Narantungalag Jadambaa, while Malaysia’s Ann Osman steps in for Irina Mazepa, and will face Ana Julaton in a flyweight clash.

“One FC: Reign of Champions is set to be the biggest night in the history of mixed martial arts! A historic three world championship titles will be on the line and will feature some of the greatest mixed martial artists from all over the world. Fans can expect a historic night featuring world class and adrenaline-pumping mixed martial arts action,” said One FC chief executive Victor Cui.

Tickets for the event will be on sale from Aug 1 at www.platinumlist.net.